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May 8, 2014

GE, Foster Wheeler Named in Asbestos Lawsuit

General Electric and Foster Wheeler have been named in a lawsuit against the corporate giants filed by Henry and Teresa Haley. The suit against Henry Haley’s former employers alleges that Mr. Haley came in contact with Asbestos, a known carcinogen, while working for GE and Foster Wheeler, causing severe health complications later in life. Haley handled the potentially dangerous material while working for both companies and now suffers from several medical conditions including Asbestosis, other lung damage, and cancer.

Asbestos, while a naturally occurring mineral, is now known to be a carcinogen with the potential to cause a wide range of serious health complications. The material is fireproof and an excellent insulator, making it a popular choice in construction and industrial work until the 1970s. However, the tiny hook-like fibers in the material can claw onto the lungs, leading to Asbestosis, Mesothelioma, and other cancers. Unfortunately, it may take years before any symptoms of the diseases begin to appear, complicating treatment and detection.
Asbestosis is a brutal, painful illness that causes inflammation and scarring in the lungs. Patients experience symptoms similar to Emphysema.

Symptoms of Asbestosis
• Shortness of breath • A persistent, dry cough • Loss of appetite with weight loss • Fingertips and toes that appear wider and rounder than normal (clubbing)
• Chest tightness or pain • Symptoms generally do not show up until 10-40 years after exposure.
(Source: The Mayo Clinic)

Mesothelioma is another disease associated with the carcinogenic mineral. The aggressive form of cancer is incurable and almost always deadly. Patients suffer through extreme pain as treatment options are very limited. A study about early detection of the illness published in PLoS One, a respected science journal, states that, “…mesothelioma is an aggressive, asbestos-related pulmonary cancer that is increasing in incidence. Because diagnosis is difficult and the disease is relatively rare, most patients present at a clinically advanced stage where possibility of cure is minimal.”

The Haley family is seeking an unspecified amount of compensation in the lawsuit, but no monetary amount will truly be able to make up for the pain and suffering caused by exposure to Asbestos. Because the illness attacks the lungs, air flow is disrupted and the patient is most often reduced to the confines of his or her bedroom, drastically altering the victim’s quality of life.

Asbestos causes victims to develop ruthless, painful illnesses that take years to discover. The pain is only amplified by the fact that it is completely preventable. Thousands of people were exposed to the toxic substance, completely unaware of the damage done to their bodies. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or other illnesses as result of asbestos exposure, we can help. At the Greater Boston Law Firm of Altman & Altman, LLP, our dedicated team of Massachusetts Personal Injury Attorneys has successfully handled Mesothelioma cases for decades. While it is true that no amount of money will ever compensate for your injuries, the hard-working victims of this Mesothelioma, Asbestosis, and other Asbestos-related illnesses and their families may be entitled to financial relief through a Personal Injury or a Wrongful Death Lawsuit. Our experienced attorneys will carefully walk you through each step of the process. We are available around the clock to answer any questions you may have.